Social Construction of Target Populations: A Theoretical Framework for Understanding Policy Approaches to Perinatal...

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Public Health
• Health Policy

Background:

• Perinatal illicit substance use presents significant challenges for nursing and public health.
• Current screening policies have profound consequences for birthing individuals and families.
• Racial disparities persist despite existing screening strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the social construction of target populations theory within perinatal illicit substance use screening.
• To understand policy-maker approaches to perinatal substance use and screening.
• To provide a framework for analyzing the selection of policy tools in this area.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the theory description and critical reflection model for analysis.
• Interrogated policy-maker approaches using theoretical insights.
• Focused on the context of hospital-based perinatal illicit substance use screening.

Main Results:

• The social construction of target populations theory offers a valuable lens for analyzing policy development.
• This theoretical framework helps explain the rationale behind specific policy tool selection.
• Understanding these constructions is crucial for addressing racial disparities in screening.

Conclusions:

• The social construction of target populations theory is a relevant framework for examining perinatal illicit substance use screening policies.
• This theory can illuminate the underlying reasons for policy choices and their impact.
• Further application of this theory may help mitigate racial disparities in perinatal care.